Privacy Policy

Last updated: January 1, 2025

1. Introduction

WildHarvest Canada ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy and personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website, use our services, or interact with us.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Personal Information

We may collect personal information that you voluntarily provide to us when you:

• Register for our foraging programs or workshops
• Contact us through our website forms
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Participate in online consultations
• Make payments for our services

This information may include:

• Full name and contact information (email, phone number, address)
• Province or territory of residence
• Foraging experience level
• Specific interests in berries, herbs, or mushrooms
• Payment information (processed securely through third-party providers)

2.2 Automatically Collected Information

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect certain information about your device and browsing behavior, including:

• IP address and location data
• Browser type and version
• Pages visited and time spent on our site
• Referring website or search terms
• Device information (screen size, operating system)

3. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect for the following purposes:

• To provide and improve our foraging education services
• To communicate with you about programs, workshops, and updates
• To send you relevant seasonal foraging information and newsletters
• To process payments and manage your account
• To respond to your inquiries and provide customer support
• To analyze website usage and improve user experience
• To comply with legal obligations and protect our rights

4. Legal Basis for Processing (Canadian Law)

Under Canadian privacy laws, we process your personal information based on:

• Consent: When you provide explicit consent for specific uses
• Contract: To fulfill our services and workshop agreements
• Legitimate Interest: To improve our services and communicate relevant information
• Legal Obligation: To comply with applicable Canadian laws

5. Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your information only in the following circumstances:

• Service Providers: With trusted third parties who assist us in operating our website and services (payment processors, email service providers)
• Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights and safety
• Business Transfers: In connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets (with prior notice)
• Consent: With your explicit consent for specific purposes

6. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal information, including:

• Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption for data transmission
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Limited access to personal information on a need-to-know basis
• Secure payment processing through PCI-compliant providers

7. Data Retention

We retain your personal information only as long as necessary to:

• Provide our services and maintain your account
• Comply with legal obligations (typically 7 years for financial records)
• Resolve disputes and enforce our agreements

You may request deletion of your personal information at any time, subject to legal retention requirements.

8. Your Rights

Under Canadian privacy laws, you have the right to:

• Access: Request information about what personal data we have about you
• Correction: Request correction of inaccurate personal information
• Deletion: Request deletion of your personal information
• Portability: Receive your personal information in a structured format
• Withdraw Consent: Withdraw previously given consent
• Complaint: File a complaint with the Privacy Commissioner of Canada

9. Cookies and Tracking

Our website uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance your browsing experience. For detailed information about our cookie practices, please refer to our Cookie Policy.

10. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit.

11. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you are a parent or guardian and believe we have collected information from your child, please contact us immediately.

12. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will notify you of any material changes by:

• Posting the updated policy on our website
• Sending an email notification to registered users
• Providing notice through our services

13. Contact Information

If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:

14. Governing Law

This Privacy Policy is governed by the laws of Canada and the province of Ontario. Any disputes relating to this policy will be subject to the jurisdiction of Canadian courts.